Register now for 2026 CPD ‘Public Safety Citizens’ Academy’

COLUMBUS, Ind. – Registration is now open for the 2026 Public Safety Citizens’ Academy. Since the 1990s, the Columbus Police Department (CPD) has offered the academy to Columbus residents, allowing them an inside look at public safety in the community.

COLUMBUS, Ind. – Registration is now open for the 2026 Public Safety Citizens’ Academy. Since the 1990s, the Columbus Police Department (CPD) has offered the academy to Columbus residents, allowing them an inside look at public safety in the community.

The 11-week, free course will take participants behind the scenes with CPD, the Columbus Fire Department (CFD), the Bartholomew County Sheriff’s Office, and the Bartholomew County Emergency Operations Center.

Students will learn more about the Bomb Squad, SWAT Team, Narcotics, and other departments. They will have the opportunity to tour the jail, fire CPD firearms at the range, participate in training scenarios, and learn to put out a fire with CFD.

This year’s course will be on Thursday evenings from 6 to 9 p.m., starting on February 12 and ending on April 30. Class will not be held on March 19 because of Spring Break.

Participants must be 18 or older and agree to a criminal background check.

Find more information and register for the Public Safety Citizens’ Academy here.